Is black mold in my AC the landlord's responsibility?« Back to Previous Page

The black, speckled growth around your AC vent and the damp wall are strong indicators of a mould issue, likely caused by excessive condensation from the AC unit. Your morning headaches are a common symptom of mould exposure, as the confined space concentrates airborne spores.

In Dubai, a landlord is generally responsible for maintaining the property's structure and major systems, including the central AC unit and any leaks or insulation failures causing the dampness. The mould growth itself is a consequence of that underlying moisture problem. As a tenant in Dubai Marina, your first step is to formally notify your landlord or property management company in writing, detailing the issue and including photographs. They are typically obligated to investigate and repair the source of the moisture.

However, your responsibility as a tenant is to maintain general cleanliness and report issues promptly. Since you've just noticed it after two years, the timeline could be a point of discussion. The persistent high humidity here means AC systems must drain properly; a clogged drain line or faulty insulation are frequent culprits.

For a case with health symptoms, a professional inspection is wise to confirm the mould type and source. Do not attempt to clean it yourself, as disturbing extensive growth can spread spores. The remediation process must address the root cause—the AC leak or condensation issue—not just the visible mould, to prevent it from returning.